The Upper Valley, home to Dartmouth and Tuck, is the beautiful region in central New Hampshire and Vermont that sits along the Connecticut River. Known for its scenic natural beauty, abundant outdoor activities, and charming communities and villages that boast everything from fine dining to farmers’ markets, the Upper Valley is a special place through all seasons—including winter.
Whether you like to hit the slopes at Dartmouth Skiway, enjoy hiking or snowshoeing in Pine Park, a collection of trails behind Tuck along the Connecticut River, or prefer cozy activities like grabbing a coffee and reading a book at Still North Books & Bar, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season.
We asked people across the Tuck community about their favorite winter pastimes in the Upper Valley, and here’s what they had to say.
Photo by Andy Kaestle T’17
Andrew Kaestle T’17
Associate Director, Career Services
This is such a magical time of year … dare I say it might be my favorite season to live here! The cooler temperatures allow my family and I to spend time together sledding, skating, and skiing. If we’re lucky enough to get some sticky snow, we always try to build the biggest snowman possible. There’s no place I’d rather be than the Upper Valley in the wintertime!
Photo by Sonya Mishra
Sonya Mishra
Assistant Professor of Business Administration
I find it hard to have fun whilst cold (how is everyone else able to do this?), so last year I spent the winter getting ahead on all my writing and research. It was the most productive I’d ever been, so I was able to spend all summer traveling and having fun. I’m hoping to do the same this year! My home office (pictured) has this large window, so it’s super cozy to sit here and write while watching it snow outside!
Photo by Aram Donigian T’08
Aram Donigian T’08
Clinical Professor of Business Administration
We love winter in the Upper Valley, from downhill skiing at all the local mountains to cross-country skiing out our backdoor, as well as ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing. Bring on the snow!
Photo by Laura DeCapua
Emmanuel Ajavon
Associate Director, Business Leadership Programs, Executive Education
I live in Eastman so in the winter, especially on quiet weekend mornings, I hit the trails for skiing or snowshoeing. Both activities are open to the surrounding communities. I then hit Tucker’s in New London for brunch. It’s a cozy spot in a quaint, quintessential New England town with incredible food.
Photo by Eric Walters
Eric Walters
Assistant Director, PR & Communications
A favorite activity any time of year, but particularly when the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, is to gather with friends for a fun night of games. Whether digging out a favorite old board game, endeavoring to try something new, or authoring another chapter in an ongoing D&D campaign, a game night is a great way to stave off the cold and connect. The Upper Valley also has a few great local places to not only buy games, but also to find new playing partners. The Fourth Place in Hanover and Black Moon Games in West Lebanon are two great options with knowledgeable, friendly staff and calendars filled with events year-round.
Photo by Andrejka Photography
Joyce Amihere
Tuck Class of 2025
Still North is one of my favorite spots in the Upper Valley during the winter. I love reading, and it’s a charming bookstore perfect for a quiet visit or catching up with friends one-on-one.
Photo by Laura DeCapua
Valerie Gutierrez
Program Coordinator, Undergraduate Programs
During the winter, I enjoy evening walks around campus and downtown Hanover with a cup of hot cocoa or matcha. Hosting out-of-state friends and family also grants me more opportunities to explore the Upper Valley. Lastly, I'm excited to try skiing and snowboarding for the first time this winter following Dartmouth's recent announcement that they’re extending their no-cost winter sports gear lending program to staff!
Photo by Laura DeCapua
Cristina Lozada
Tuck Class of 2025
My favorite winter activities include playing in the Winter Hockey League because it’s a great way to meet people from the other class year, and hitting the slopes for a Killington Friday run. Since we don’t have classes, it’s the perfect opportunity to go skiing with friends!
Photo by Katherine McCarthy
Katherine McCarthy
Program Manager, Center for Business, Government & Society
One of my favorite ways to spend time in the Upper Valley during the winter, especially on those “milder” days above 30 degrees, is walking along the Lebanon Greenway or Northern Rail Trail. Growing up in eastern North Carolina, I didn’t have much exposure to skiing or other winter sports, but I’ve since invested in a good pair of ice cleats, which make winter trail adventures safer and more enjoyable. Living in downtown Lebanon, I love stopping by Lucky’s Coffee Garage for a warm beverage—sometimes before, sometimes after my walk!
Kelley Barton
Student & Alumni Affairs Manager, Health Care Management Education at Dartmouth
I love to visit the Forest of Lights at VINS every year for a magical way to enjoy the cold, snowy season. Every winter, they add something new that’s worth seeing. Last year, they added these adorable glowing mushrooms and a fairy hideaway.
If I could hibernate, I would, but I can’t so I’m a hobbyist by winter. This year, I signed up for an Intro to Spinning class at CraftStudies Studio & School in White River Junction. The classes started in January and I’m excited to make my own yarn to knit with!
Photo by Matt Lotterhand
Matt Lotterhand
Director of Institutional Research
One of my favorite ways to spend winter in the Upper Valley is snowshoeing or hiking along the trails at Mink Brook. I like to start at the trailhead near Thompson Terrace, cross the log bridge, and take a right to follow the trail as it winds along the brook. After a long brisk hike, there’s nothing better than curling up next to the woodstove with a good book and my dog.
Kayanat Paracha
Associate Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
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